Essex County Council (ECC) is strengthening enforcement of bus lanes and bus gates in Essex with increased use of unattended approved cameras.

Up until spring 2017, we largely relied on a combination of voluntary driver compliance and Police enforcement to dissuade drivers from contravening the bus lanes or bus gates.

As the county’s population and economy grows, we see the level of infringements increasing which can affect bus punctuality and lead to less reliable journey times. Increased enforcement is designed to change the behaviour of those drivers who choose to use bus lanes and bus gates illegally, keeping them available for their intended use. It also helps to maintain safer routes for pedestrians.

At locations where enforcement is strengthened by unattended cameras, existing road signs and road markings are being checked and enhanced when necessary.

Before entering a bus lane or bus gate, motorists should check the approach signs as the exempted classes of vehicle will vary from location to location and will be signed appropriately.

Exemptions are also detailed in the Traffic Regulation Order published for each site.